Image processing system

ABSTRACT

An image processing system is provided that is capable of performing copying processes by connecting devices which specifications for processing image data are mutually different. In an image processing system comprised of an image reading device for optically reading original documents and converting these into electronic image data and a printing device for printing image data that have been received from the image reading device onto recording media, image processing circuits for processing image data in accordance with specified specifications are respectively incorporated into the scanning device and the printing device, and a device that may be set in accordance with specifications for processing image data based on given circuit arrangement information is used to comprise at least a part of either one of the image processing circuits of these devices. By setting the image processing circuit in accordance with specifications for processing image data on the basis of specification information of the image processing circuit of the opposing device, it is enabled to connect scanning devices and printing devices that are of mutually different specifications.

[0001] This application is based on applications Nos. 11-341815,11-341816, 11-341817 and 11-341818 filed in Japan, the contents of whichis hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to an image processing systemincluding an image reading device and a printing device that arerespectively incorporated with image processing systems for processingimage data according to specified specifications.

[0003] Accompanying recent progresses in information processingtechniques, various image processing devices are being commerciallyavailable from many manufacturers and all kinds of image processingdevices came into general use in these days. Well-known examples of suchimage processing devices are scanners for optically reading originaldocuments and converting these into electronic image data or printersfor printing received image data on recording media. Such scanners andprinters are generally used in that they are individually connected topersonal computers or in that they are connected to each other whereinimage data are transmitted between both appliances through the personalcomputer in the former case while image data are directly transmitted inthe latter case.

[0004] Particularly in the latter case in which a scanner and a printerare connected to each other to comprise an image processing system forperforming copying processes, it is generally the case that specifiedimage processing circuits are respectively incorporated into each of theappliances and image are being transmitted between both appliances whilebeing processed in the image processing circuits of each of theappliances.

[0005] In connection therewith, one example of a conventional imageprocessing system wherein an image reading device and a printer deviceare connected for performing copying processes is illustrated in FIG.19. In this image processing system 150, copying processes are performedin which respective CPUs 156, 164 are communicating with each other withan image reading device (hereinafter referred to as “scanner”) 153 and aprinting device (hereinafter referred to as “printer”) 161 beingdirectly connected. In performing such copying processes, an originaldocument is first read by a CCD 154 in the scanner 153 and the acquiredimage data is processed in an image processing circuit 155 whereupon theimage data is output to the printer 161. The output image data isreceived by the printer 161 and further processed in an image processingcircuit 162 thereof, and is finally developed and printed on paper byusing a laser (indicated by LD in the drawing) 163.

[0006] In such an image processing system 150, it is generally the casethat respective devices, that is, the scanner 153 and the printer 161,are provided on the basis of individual specifications related toresolution, colored/monochrome, and number of halftones, and image dataare being processed in respective devices according to thesespecifications. At this time, image data are being sequentiallyprocessed in the image processing circuits 155, 162 of respectivedevices, while it is necessary to performing processing of image data inboth image processing circuits 155, 162 on the basis of identicalspecifications in order to obtain copies of desired qualities.

[0007] It is therefore the case that the conventional image processingsystem 150 is comprised of a scanner 153 and a printer 161 that are ofidentical specifications. More particularly, such a conventional scannerand printer lack in compatibility with other appliances to be connected,and in case the user buys a new printer that is of differentspecification, it may require the user to also buy a new scanner that isof identical specification therewith. This was a factor for increasingthe burden on the user in view of costs.

[0008] To deal with such problems in such a conventional arrangement, itwould be possible to preliminarily integrate various image processingcircuits to correspond to all kinds of combinations and to switch amongthese for enabling connection of devices that are of differentspecifications also in the conventional arrangement. However, thenecessity of providing a plurality of image processing circuitsincreases the scale of the circuits and may lead to increased costs.Another drawback was it that it was impossible to deal with new devicesthat are of different specifications.

[0009] In view of this fact, let us consider an image processing systemfor performing copying processes that is comprised by connecting ascanning device and printing device that are of mutually differentspecifications. In such an image processing system, at least either ofthe scanning device or the printing device is incorporated with an imageprocessing circuit a part of which includes systematically alignedprogrammable logic modules with wiring regions provided therebetweensuch that a device realizing a desired logic is used by connecting thelogic modules and the wiring regions in accordance with a specifiedprogram. Such an image processing circuit may be set in accordance withspecifications for processing image data on the basis of given circuitarrangement information, and copying processes may be performed bymutually connecting a scanning device and a printing device that are ofdifferent specifications by setting the above image processing circuitto run on specifications for processing that are identical to the imageprocessing circuit of the other device in accordance with theinformation on specifications thereof.

[0010] In the above-described image processing system, upon changing adevice that is connected to a device that is incorporated with an imageprocessing circuit that may be set depending on specifications forprocessing image data on the basis of given circuit arrangementinformation, circuit arrangement information corresponding tospecification information of the new device are transferred to the imageprocessing circuit. Thus, even if the required specifications are equalto the former ones, it will be required to transfer the same circuitarrangement information as the former one to the image processingcircuit. The image processing circuit will then set a circuit that isidentical to the former one based on the repeatedly transferred circuitarrangement information. In other words, both, a time for transferringcircuit arrangement information and a time for setting a circuit basedon the circuit arrangement information will be required in such a caseso that boot times for the devices will become long similar to a case inwhich different specifications are required before and after changingthe opposing device.

[0011] It is, in general, further the case that a volatile device isused as the image processing circuit that may be set in accordance withspecifications for processing image data in the above-described imageprocessing system, and specifications for processing image data thathave been set in the image processing circuit on the basis of specifiedcircuit arrangement information will become invalid without beingmaintained when the power source is switched OFF. Therefore, it will benecessary to transfer circuit arrangement information that is identicalto the former one to the image processing circuit also in case therequired specifications are identical to those of the former uponswitching the power source ON again. The image processing circuit willthen set a circuit that is identical to the former one based on therepeatedly transferred circuit arrangement information. In other words,both, a time for transferring circuit arrangement information and a timefor setting a circuit based on the circuit arrangement information willbe required in such a case so that boot times for the devices willbecome long similar to a case in which different specifications arerequired before and after switching the power source ON.

[0012] Still further, in case specifications for the image processingcircuit of, for instance, the scanning device is to be set in accordancewith information on specifications of the printing device in theabove-described image processing system, the device that is incorporatedwith an image processing circuit that may be set in accordance withspecifications for processing image data on the basis of given circuitarrangement information needs to correspond to a plurality of devicesthat are incorporated with image processing circuits that are ofmutually different specifications such that image data may be sent fromthe plurality of printing devices to a single scanning device. In thiscase, a time required to performing setting will be prolonged as a wholewhen employing an arrangement in which setting of specifications areperformed on the side of the device that is incorporated with an imageprocessing circuit that may be set in accordance with specifications forprocessing image data each time switching of destinations for sendingimage data to is performed.

[0013] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide animage processing system in which devices, which are of differentspecifications in view of, for instance, resolution, colored/monochromeor number of halftones, may be connected for enabling copying processes.

[0014] It is another object of the present invention to provide an imageprocessing system with which an average boot time of a device may beshortened when changing a device that is connected to a device that isincorporated with an image processing circuit that may be set inaccordance with specifications for processing image data.

[0015] It is still another object of the present invention to provide animage processing system with which a boot time at the time of switchinga power source ON may be shortened.

[0016] It is still another object of the present invention to provide animage processing system comprised of a plurality of scanning devices andprinting devices with which boot times for the devices may be shortenedin performing switching among devices to be used.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided animage processing system comprised of an image reading device foroptically reading original documents and converting these intoelectronic image data, and a printing device for printing image datathat have been received from the image reading device onto recordingmedia, wherein the image processing system includes a first imageprocessing unit that is provided on the image reading device side forprocessing read image data with at least a part thereof being comprisedby a device which circuit logic is variable; a second image processingunit that is provided on the printing device side for processing imagedata received from the image reading device; a recording medium forstoring a plurality of circuit arrangement information; and a controlunit for discriminating specifications for processing of the secondimage processing unit, selecting one of the plurality of circuitarrangement information in accordance with the discriminatedspecifications for processing, and setting a circuit logic for the firstimage processing unit based on the selected circuit arrangementinformation.

[0018] The specifications for processing that are discriminated by thecontrol unit are preferably specifications for processing related to atleast one of resolution, colored/monochrome and number of halftones. Itis alternatively possible to employ an arrangement in which therecording medium is provided on the printing device side and in whichthe control unit acquires circuit arrangement information that is storedin the recording medium upon communication with the printing device. Itis also possible to employ an arrangement in which the image processingsystem is further comprised with another image reading device that maycommunicate with the above-described image reading device and in whichthe control unit acquires circuit arrangement information that is storedin the recording medium upon communication with the other image readingdevice. It is further possible to employ an arrangement in which theimage processing system is further comprised with a non-volatile memoryprovided on the image reading device side, and in which the control unitperforms control such that circuit arrangement information acquired fromthe recording medium are stored in the non-volatile memory and thatthese circuit information are read from the non-volatile memory whennecessary for setting the circuit logic for the first image processingunit. It is also possible to employ an arrangement in which the controlunit reads circuit information from the non-volatile memory whenswitching the power source of the device ON for setting the circuitlogic for the first image processing unit. It is also possible to employan arrangement in which the control unit compares the newly acquiredcircuit arrangement information with circuit arrangement informationthat is in compliance with the currently set circuit logic for the firstimage processing unit and inhibits setting of a circuit logic for thefirst image processing unit that is based on the newly acquired circuitarrangement information in case both information are identical. It isfurther possible to employ an arrangement in which the control unit setsthe circuit logic for the first image processing unit to be a circuitlogic that is based on default specifications in case a specifiedcondition is met. It is also possible to employ an arrangement in whichthe control unit sets the circuit logic for the first image processingunit to be a circuit logic based on default specifications uponcompletion of a single job in case the specified condition is completionof a single job in the image processing system. It is also possible toemploy an arrangement in which the control unit sets the circuit logicfor the first image processing unit to be a circuit logic that is basedon default specifications when a standby time of the image processingsystem has exceeded a specified time in case the specified condition isthe standby time of the image processing system. The defaultspecifications are preferably specifications for processing that aremost frequently used.

[0019] In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided animage processing system comprised of an image reading device foroptically reading original documents and converting these intoelectronic image data, and a printing device for printing image datathat have been received from the image reading device onto recordingmedia, wherein the image processing system includes a first imageprocessing unit that is provided on the image reading device side forprocessing read image data; a second image processing unit that isprovided on the printing device side for processing image data receivedfrom the image reading device with at least a part thereof beingcomprised by a device which circuit logic is variable; a recordingmedium for storing a plurality of circuit arrangement information; and acontrol unit for discriminating specifications for processing of thefirst image processing unit, selecting one of the plurality of circuitarrangement information in accordance with the discriminatedspecifications for processing, and setting a circuit logic for thesecond image processing unit based on the selected circuit arrangementinformation.

[0020] The specifications for processing that are discriminated by thecontrol unit are preferably specifications for processing related to atleast one of resolution, colored/monochrome and number of halftones. Itis alternatively possible to employ an arrangement in which therecording medium is provided on the printing device side and in whichthe control unit acquires circuit arrangement information that is storedin the recording medium upon communication with the printing device. Itis also possible to employ an arrangement in which the image processingsystem is further comprised with another image reading device that maycommunicate with the above-described image reading device and in whichthe control unit acquires circuit arrangement information that is storedin the recording medium upon communication with the other image readingdevice. It is further possible to employ an arrangement in which theimage processing system is further comprised with a non-volatile memoryprovided on the image reading device side, and in which the control unitperforms control such that circuit arrangement information acquired fromthe recording medium are stored in the non-volatile memory and thatthese circuit information are read from the non-volatile memory whennecessary for setting the circuit logic for the second image processingunit. It is also possible to employ an arrangement in which the controlunit reads circuit information from the non-volatile memory whenswitching the power source of the device ON for setting the circuitlogic for the second image processing unit. It is also possible toemploy an arrangement in which the control unit compares the newlyacquired circuit arrangement information with circuit arrangementinformation that is in compliance with the currently set circuit logicfor the second image processing unit and inhibits setting of a circuitlogic for the second image processing unit based on the newly acquiredcircuit arrangement information in case both information are identical.It is further possible to employ an arrangement in which the controlunit sets the circuit logic for the second image processing unit to be acircuit logic that is based on default specifications in case aspecified condition is met. It is also possible to employ an arrangementin which the control unit sets the circuit logic for the second imageprocessing unit to be a circuit logic that is based on defaultspecifications upon completion of a single job in case the specifiedcondition is completion of a single job in the image processing system.It is also possible to employ an arrangement in which the control unitsets the circuit logic for the second image processing unit to be acircuit logic that is based on default specifications when a standbytime of the image processing system has exceeded a specified time incase the specified condition is the standby time of the image processingsystem. The default specifications are preferably specifications forprocessing that are most frequently used.

BRIEF EXPLANATIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021]FIG. 1 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a first form for embodying thepresent invention.

[0022]FIG. 2 is an explanatory view wherein circuit data are transmittedto an image processing circuit (FPGA) provided within a scanner of theabove image processing system.

[0023]FIG. 3A illustrates image data output patterns of the scanner ofthe image processing system corresponding to a first printer.

[0024]FIG. 3B illustrates, in an enlarged form, a part of the image dataoutput of the scanner of the image processing system corresponding tothe first printer.

[0025]FIG. 4A illustrates image data output patterns of the scanner ofthe image processing system corresponding to a second printer.

[0026]FIG. 4B illustrates, in an enlarged form, a part of the image dataoutput of the scanner of the image processing system corresponding tothe second printer.

[0027]FIG. 5A illustrates image data output patterns of the scanner ofthe image processing system corresponding to a third printer.

[0028]FIG. 5B illustrates, in an enlarged form, a part of the image dataoutput of the scanner of the image processing system corresponding tothe third printer.

[0029]FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processes for comparing circuitdata in the scanner.

[0030]FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing an arrangement of a modifiedexample of the image processing system according to the first form forembodying the present invention.

[0031]FIG. 8 is an explanatory view wherein circuit data are transmittedto an image processing circuit (FPGA) provided within a scanner of theabove image processing system.

[0032]FIG. 9A is a flowchart illustrating processes for settingspecifications of the image processing circuit based on circuit data atthe time of transferring circuit data through a CPU of the imageprocessing system.

[0033]FIG. 9B is a flowchart illustrating processes for settingspecifications of the image processing circuit on the basis of circuitdata at the time of switching the power source of the image processingsystem ON.

[0034]FIG. 10 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a second form for embodying thepresent invention.

[0035]FIG. 11 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of amodified example of the image processing system according to the secondform of embodiment.

[0036]FIG. 12 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a third form for embodying thepresent invention.

[0037]FIG. 13 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of amodified example of the image processing system according to the thirdform of embodiment.

[0038]FIG. 14 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a fourth form for embodying thepresent invention.

[0039]FIG. 15 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of amodified example of the image processing system according to the fourthform of embodiment.

[0040]FIG. 16 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a fifth form for embodying thepresent invention.

[0041]FIG. 17A is a flowchart illustrating generally performed processesfor setting specifications of the image processing circuit in accordancewith requests from the printer side in the image processing systemaccording to the fifth form of embodiment.

[0042]FIG. 17B is a flowchart illustrating processes for settingspecifications of the image processing circuit in case a standbycondition of a scanner of the image processing system according to thefifth form of embodiment is continuing beyond a specified time.

[0043]FIG. 18 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of amodified example of the image processing system according to the fifthform of embodiment.

[0044]FIG. 19 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of aconventional image processing system comprising a scanning device and aprinting device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF FORMS FOR EMBODYING THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0045] Forms for embodying the present invention will now be explainedwith reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Embodiment 1

[0047]FIG. 1 illustrates an arrangement of the image processing systemaccording to a first form for embodying the present invention. The imageprocessing system 10 includes a scanner 3 for optically reading originaldocuments and converting these into electronic image data, and a printer11 for printing image data that have been received from the scanner 3 onrecording media, wherein the scanner 3 and the printer 11 are mutuallyconnected for performing copying processes by working together whilesending and receiving various information to and from each other.

[0048] In a basic arrangement, the scanner 3 is comprised of a CCD 4 forreading original documents and converting these into electronic imagedata, an image processing circuit 5 that is provided proximate to anoutput side of the scanner 3 for outputting image data received from theCCD 4 upon processing, a CPU 6 for controlling operations of variousportions within the scanner 3, and a circuit data file 7 for thescanner. On the other hand, the printer 11 is comprised of an imageprocessing circuit 12 that is provided proximate to an input sidethereof for processing image data received from the scanner 3, a laser13 (indicated by LD in the drawing) for developing and printing theimage data on paper, and a CPU 14 for controlling operations of variousportions within the printer 11.

[0049] In performing copying processes between the scanner 3 and theprinter 11, image data are directly supplied from the image processingcircuit 5 on the scanner 3 side to the image processing circuit 12 onthe printer 11 side, and mutual communication is performed between theCPU 6 on the scanner 3 side and the CPU 14 on the printer 11 side foridentifying types or operating conditions of the opposing appliances asillustrated in FIG. 1. At this time, image data are processed in theimage processing circuits 5 and 12 on the basis of specifiedspecifications for processing images, e.g. resolution,colored/monochrome and number of halftones, and for enabling sequentialprocessing of image data in the image processing circuits 5 and 12, dataare required to be processed on the basis of identical specifications inthe image processing circuits 5 and 12.

[0050] To meet this requirement, the image processing circuit 5 that isincorporated within the scanner 3 of the above image processing system10 is one that may be set in accordance with specifications forprocessing image data on the basis of given circuit arrangementinformation. In this illustrated embodiment, a conventionally known gatearray 5 a (so-called FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array)) which circuitlogic is rewritable is used to comprise a part of the image processingcircuit. Note that detailed descriptions related to circuit arrangementsor the like will be omitted here since the FPGA itself is aconventionally known technique. Using the FPGA 5 a , it is possible torealize a desired logic by systematically aligning programmable logicmodules with wiring regions provided therebetween to thus connect thelogic modules and the wiring regions in accordance with a specifiedprogram. It is accordingly enabled to change the circuit logic and toperform processing of image data in accordance with variousspecifications on the basis of various given programs.

[0051] According to the illustrated embodiment, the scanner 3 is furtherprovided with the circuit data file 7 for storing a plurality of settinginformation for establishing a circuit logic for the image processingcircuit 5, that is, circuit arrangement information (hereinafterreferred to as “circuit data”) therein. The circuit data file 7 isstored in a recording medium such as a hard disk. This recording mediumfurther stores therein a rewriting program for writing circuit data tothe image processing circuit 5, that is, for rewriting circuit data.

[0052] In the thus arranged image processing system 10, specificationsfor the image processing circuit 5 on the scanner side 3 are set asfollows in performing copying processes.

[0053] In a condition in which the scanner 3 and the printer 11 aremutually connected, communication is performed between the CPU 6 and theCPU 14 that are incorporated in both members. Upon communication, theCPU 6 identifies a specification that is being employed by the imageprocessing circuit 12 on the printer 11 side. The CPU 6 then selectscircuit data corresponding to the identified specifications from amongthe circuit data file 7 in accordance with a rewriting program and thesecircuit data are written into the FPGA 5 a of the image processingcircuit 5. With this arrangement, the circuit data of the FPGA 5 a arerewritten and the circuit logic thereof is changed. On the other hand,circuit data corresponding to these specifications are selected in thescanner 3 from the circuit data file 7 and sent to the image processingcircuit 5 through the CPU 6. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the CPU 6 and theimage processing circuit 5 are mutually connected via a CPU bus 9 sothat circuit data that have been selected from among the circuit datafile 7 are sent to the image processing circuit 5 through the CPU bus 9upon passing through the CPU 6.

[0054] In the image processing circuit 5, the circuit data that havebeen selected by the CPU 6 in accordance with the specifications of theprinter 11 side are written to the FPGA 5 a and specifications thereofare accordingly set. With this arrangement, the image processing circuit5 is enabled to process image data based on specifications that areidentical to the specifications of the image processing circuit 12 onthe printer 12 side.

[0055] It will now be explained for specifications that are set in theimage processing circuit 5 on the scanner 3 side and output patterns ofimage data that are output to the printer 11 side upon processing on thebasis thereof in case printers 11 of various specifications (printer A,B and C) are connected to the scanner 3 comprised with the imageprocessing circuit 5 that may be set in accordance with specificationsfor processing image data on the basis of given circuit data.

[0056] The original specifications for the scanner 3 are “600 D dpi,colored, 256 levels of halftones”. The term “original specifications”indicates specifications of an initial condition that are set in theimage processing system 5 in case the scanner 3 has, for instance, beenreset. On the other hand, specifications of the printers A, B and C are“600 dpi, colored, 256 levels of halftones”, “1,200 dpi, monochrome, 2levels of halftones” and “600 dpi, monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”,respectively.

[0057] First, in case the printer A is connected and it is determined bythe CPU 6 that the specifications of the printer 11 side is “600 dpi,colored, 256 levels of halftones”, circuit data corresponding to thesespecifications of the printer 11 side are selected in the scanner 3 fromamong the circuit data file 7, and these circuit data are sent to theimage processing circuit 5 by passing through the CPU 6. Based on thesecircuit data, the specifications of the image processing circuit 5 areset to generate image data of “600 dpi, colored, 256 levels ofhalftones”. It should be noted that since the specifications of theprinter 11 side are identical to the original specifications of thescanner 3 side, the process of resetting specifications for the imageprocessing circuit 5 based on the circuit data selected from the circuitdata file 7 may be omitted to perform processing on the basis oforiginal specifications.

[0058] In this manner, the image processing circuit 5 on the scanner 3side will generate image data of “600 dpi, colored, 256 levels ofhalftones” using data of 600 dpi and respective colors of RGB that areoutput from the CCD 4. In the illustrated embodiment, RGB color datafrom the CCD 4 are converted into CMYK colors that are standard colormodes for printing in generating such image data.

[0059] Image data that have been generated in the image processingcircuit 5 on the scanner 3 side are sequentially output to the printer11 through an image data line. At this time, image data of CMYK colorsand 256 levels of halftones are transferred per each pixel synchronouslywith page synchronizing signals/line synchronizing signals/clock signalsas illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 3A illustrates timings for transferringimage data for a single page and FIG. 3B illustrates these transfertimings for each line in an enlarged manner.

[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the page synchronizing signals aremaintained at a low level while transferring data for a single page, andline synchronizing signals are maintained at a low level for each lineof the single page. As it is evident from FIG. 3B, respective color dataof Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan) and K (black) are sequentiallytransferred by each 8 bits per pixels synchronously with theabove-described two signals and the clock signals as image data of CMYKcolors and 256 levels of halftones. When the page synchronizing signalsand line synchronizing signals are of low level and the clock signalsare of high level, the image data are acquired by the printer 11 asvalid data. It should be noted that “Y2-1” in FIG. 3B indicates yellow,second line, first pixel and “M2-1” magenta, second line, first pixel.

[0061] Next, in case printer B is connected and it is determined by theCPU 6 that the specifications of the printer 11 side is “1,200 dpi,monochrome, 2 levels of halftones”, circuit data corresponding to thesespecifications of the printer 11 side are selected in the scanner 3 fromamong the circuit data file 7, and these circuit data are sent to theimage processing circuit 5 by passing through the CPU 6. Based on thesecircuit data, a circuit for determining the resolution,colored/monochrome and number of halftones is adjusted such that thespecifications are set to generate image data of “1,200 dpi, monochrome,2 levels of halftones”. In this manner, the image processing circuit 5may output image data of “1,200 dpi, monochrome, 2 levels of halftones”by using respective data of 600 dpi and RGB colors that are output fromthe CCD 4.

[0062] Image data that have been generated in the image processingcircuit 5 on the scanner 3 side are sequentially output to the printer11 through the image data line. At this time, monochrome image data of 2levels of halftones are transferred per each pixel synchronously withpage synchronizing signals/line synchronizing signals/clock signals asillustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 4A illustrates timings for transferringimage data for a single page and FIG. 4B illustrates these transfertimings for each line in an enlarged manner.

[0063] As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the page synchronizing signals aremaintained at a low level while transferring data for a single page, andline synchronizing signals are maintained at a low level for each lineof the single page. As it is evident from FIG. 4B, data of K (black) aretransferred by each bit per each pixel synchronously with theabove-described two signals and the clock signals as monochrome imagedata of 2 levels of halftones. When the page synchronizing signals andline synchronizing signals are of low level and the clock signals are ofhigh level, the image data are acquired by the printer 11 as valid data.It should be noted that “K2-1” in FIG. 4B indicates black, second line,first pixel.

[0064] Thereafter, in case the printer C is connected and it isdetermined by the CPU 6 that the specifications of the printer 11 sideis “600 dpi, monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, circuit datacorresponding to these specifications of the printer 11 side areselected in the scanner 3 from among the circuit data file 7, and thesecircuit data are sent to the image processing circuit 5 by passingthrough the CPU 6. Based on these circuit data, the specifications ofthe image processing circuit 5 are set to generate image data of “600dpi, monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, and image data of “600 dpi,monochrome, 256 levels of halftones” are output by using respective dataof 600 dpi and RGB colors that are output from the CCD 4.

[0065] Image data that have been generated in the image processingcircuit 5 on the scanner 3 side are sequentially output to the printer11 through the image data line. At this time, monochrome image data of256 levels of halftones are transferred per each pixel synchronouslywith page synchronizing signals/line synchronizing signals/clock signalsas illustrated in FIG. 5. FIG. 5A illustrates timings for transferringimage data for a single page and FIG. 5B illustrates these transfertimings for each line in an enlarged manner.

[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the page synchronizing signals aremaintained at a low level while transferring data for a single page, andline synchronizing signals are maintained at a low level for each lineof the single page. As it can be more particularly understood from FIG.5B, data of K (black) are transferred by each 8 bits per pixelssynchronously with the above-described two signals and the clock signalsas monochrome image data of 256 levels of halftones. When the pagesynchronizing signals and line synchronizing signals are of low leveland the clock signals are of high level, the image data are acquired bythe printer 11 as valid data.

[0067] While not particularly illustrated in the drawings, imageprocessing circuits 5 provided on scanner 2 side will be similarly setin accordance with various specifications of printers 11 to be connectedin case the original specifications of the scanner 2 are, for instance,“1,200 dpi, monochrome, 2 levels of halftones” and “600 dpi, monochrome,256 levels of halftones”.

[0068] In case of employing a scanner 2 which original specificationsare “1,200 dpi, monochrome, 2 levels of halftones” and thespecifications of the printer 11 are “600 dpi, colored, 256 levels ofhalftones”, the specifications of the image processing circuit 5 on thescanner 2 side are set to generate image data of 600 dpi, color K(black) and 256 levels of halftones using monochrome data of 1,200 dpithat are output from the CCD 4. It should be noted that data 0 aretransferred in view of CMY colors in transferring image data to theprinter 11.

[0069] In case the specifications of the printer 11 are “1,200 dpi,monochrome, 2 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 5 on the scanner 2 side are set to generate imagedata of 1,200 dpi, color K (black) and 2 levels of halftones usingmonochrome data of 1,200 dpi that are output from the CCD 4.

[0070] Still further, in case the specifications of the printer 11 are“600 dpi, monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, the specifications ofthe image processing circuit 5 on the scanner 2 side are set to generateimage data of 600 dpi, color K (black) and 256 levels of halftones usingmonochrome data of 1,200 dpi that are output from the CCD 4.

[0071] In case of employing a scanner 2 which original specificationsare “600 dpi, monochrome, 256 levels of halftones” and thespecifications of the printer 11 are “600 dpi, colored, 256 levels ofhalftones”, the specifications of the image processing circuit 5 on thescanner 2 side are set to generate image data of 600 dpi, color K(black) and 256 levels of halftones using monochrome data of 600 dpithat are output from the CCD 4. It should be noted that data 0 aretransferred in view of CMY colors in transferring image data to theprinter 11.

[0072] In case the specifications of the printer 11 are “1,200 dpi,monochrome, 2 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 5 on the scanner 2 side are set to generate imagedata of 600 dpi, color K (black) and 2 levels of halftones usingmonochrome data of 600 dpi that are output from the CCD 4.

[0073] Still further, in case the specifications of the printer 11 are“600 dpi, monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, the specifications ofthe image processing circuit 5 on the scanner 2 side are set to generateimage data of 600 dpi, color K (black) and 2 levels of halftones usingmonochrome data of 600 dpi that are output from the CCD 4.

[0074] As described above, by setting specifications for the imageprocessing circuit 5 on the scanner 2 side based on circuit dataselected from the circuit data file 7 in accordance with specificationinformation of the image processing circuit 12 provided on the printer11 side such that the specifications are identical to the specificationinformation in performing copying processes by using the above imageprocessing system 10, it will be possible to perform copying processesby mutually connecting scanner 2 and printer 11 which specifications inview of resolution, colored/monochrome and number of halftones differ.

[0075] In this case, it will not be required to provide a plurality ofimage processing circuits in accordance with types of printers 11 sothat it is possible to increase the circuit scale and to restrictincreases in costs related therewith. The image processing system 10 isfurther capable of corresponding to new appliances by performingrewriting and/or additions of circuit data that are stored in thecircuit data file 7.

[0076] Setting of specifications of the image processing circuit 5 isnaturally performed in the image processing system 10 upon switching thepower source of the scanner 3 or the printer 11 ON or upon changing theprinter 11 that is connected to the scanner 3. When, for instance,changing the printer 11, and a new printer 11 is connected to thescanner 3, specification information of the image processing circuit 12on the printer 11 side are instantly identified and circuit datacorresponding to the specification information are selected from thecircuit data file 7 and sent to the CPU 6 on the scanner 3 side. In theillustrated embodiment, circuit data corresponding to specificationinformation corresponding to the new printer 11, and circuit datacorresponding to specification information corresponding to the oldprinter 11, that is, circuit data used for the previous setting ofspecifications for the image processing circuit 5 on the scanner 3 sideare compared in the CPU 6 on the scanner 3 side. In case it is foundthat these circuit data are identical, setting of specifications is notrepeatedly performed for the image processing circuit 5.

[0077] It should be noted that the power source of the scanner 3 ismaintained in an ON condition while changing the printer 11 andspecifications that are set in the image processing circuit 5 aremaintained.

[0078]FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processes for settingspecifications for the image processing circuit when changing theprinter 11 in the above image processing system 10.

[0079] Upon connecting a new printer 11, specification informationthereof are first identified, and circuit data corresponding to thespecification information are sent from the circuit data file 7 to theCPU 6 and received (#21). The CPU 6 then compares the newly receivedcircuit data and circuit data that have been used for the previoussetting of specifications for the image processing circuit 5 on thescanner 3 side (#22). In case it is accordingly found that both data arenot coincident, the newly received circuit data are sent to the imageprocessing circuit 5 and setting of the image processing circuit 5 isperformed in accordance with specifications for processing image data onthe basis of the circuit data (#23). In case both data are coincident in#22, the newly received circuit data are abandoned and processes arecontinued (#24).

[0080] By employing an arrangement in which setting of specificationsfor the image processing circuit 5 of the scanner 3 is not repeatedlyperformed in case it is determined that specifications of a new printer11 are identical to specifications of the former printer in changingprinters 11 in the above image processing system 10, it is possible toshorten the time for setting specifications required when changing to anew printer 11, that is, the time in which the devices are terminated.

[0081] Since the image processing circuit 5 is a volatile one that maybe set in accordance with specifications for processing image data,specifications for processing image data that have been set in the imageprocessing circuit 5 on the basis of specified circuit data will becomeinvalid without being maintained when switching the power source OFF.Thus, the above image processing system 10 is arranged in that circuitdata corresponding to specification information of the printer 11 arerepeatedly transferred to the image processing circuit 5 each time thepower source of the scanner 3 is switched ON. While it will be generallynecessary to transfer circuit data to the image processing circuit 5that are identical to those of the previous time when switching thepower source ON also in case the specifications that are currentlyrequired are identical to the previous specifications when employing theabove style, it is alternatively possible to employ a non-volatilememory 21 in an image processing system 20 as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and8 for communicating with the CPU 6 and the image processing unit 5through the CPU bus 9 for simplifying transfer of circuit data in suchcases. The non-volatile memory 21 is for storing circuit data when thecircuit data are selected from the circuit data file 7 and are sent tothe image processing circuit 5 through the CPU 6.

[0082] By the provision of such a non-volatile memory 21, circuit datathat have been stored at the previous time of transfer may be directlysupplied from the non-volatile memory 21 to the image processing circuit5 when repeatedly switching the power source of the scanner 3 ON. It isconsequently possible to eliminate the necessity of repeatedly selectingcircuit data from the circuit data file 7 and transferring the circuitdata through a specified communicating line, to eliminate the time fortransferring circuit data and to thus shorten the boot times for thedevices.

[0083]FIGS. 9A and 9B are flowcharts illustrating processes for settingspecifications of the image processing circuit 5 based on circuit dataat the time of transferring circuit data through the CPU 6 on thescanner 3 side and at the time of switching the power source ON,respectively.

[0084] As illustrated in FIG. 9A, the CPU 6 first receives circuit datathat have been selected from the circuit data file 7 in transferringcircuit data through the CPU 6 to the image processing circuit 5 (#31).Then, the received circuit data are sent from the CPU 6 to thenon-volatile memory 21 and the non-volatile memory 21 stores the sentcircuit data (#32). The CPU 6 sends the received circuit data to theimage processing circuit 5 comprised with a volatile FPGA 5 a so thatspecifications for processing image data on the basis of the circuitdata are set in the image processing circuit 5 (#33). When switching thepower source OFF, specifications that have been set in the imageprocessing circuit 5 will become invalid while circuit data stored inthe above non-volatile memory 21 will be maintained.

[0085] Next, in case specifications are requested that are identical tothe previous specifications upon repeatedly switching the power sourceON as illustrated in FIG. 9B, the circuit data stored in thenon-volatile memory 21 are read out (#36). These circuit data are sentto the image processing circuit 5 and the image processing circuit 5 isset in accordance with specifications for processing image data on thebasis of these circuit data (#37).

[0086] In this manner, by reading out circuit data that have been storedin the non-volatile memory 21 in case it is requested for specificationsthat are identical to the previous specifications upon switching thepower source of the scanner 3 ON, it is possible to eliminate thenecessity of repeatedly selecting desired circuit data from among thecircuit data file 7 and to transfer the circuit data through thespecified communicating line so that the time for transferring circuitdata may be eliminated to thus shorten the boot time for the devices.

[0087] Another form for embodying the present invention will now beexplained. It should be noted that members that are identical to thoseof the above-described first embodiment will be marked with the samereference numerals in the following descriptions, and furtherexplanations thereof will be omitted.

[0088]FIG. 10 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a second form for embodying thepresent invention. The image processing system 30 is of similararrangement as that of the above-described first embodiment while acircuit data file 47 for storing a plurality of circuit data that areprovided to the image processing circuit 5 on a scanner 32 side isprovided on a printer 41 side.

[0089] In the image processing system 30, specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 5 on the scanner 32 side are set in the followingmanner for performing copying processes.

[0090] In a condition in which the scanner 32 and the printer 41 aremutually connected, communication is performed between CPU 36 and CPU 44that are incorporated in these members for identifying specifications ofthe image processing circuit 12 on the printer 41 side, whereuponcircuit data corresponding to these specifications are selected in thescanner 32 from among the circuit data file 47 that is provided withinthe printer 41. The selected circuit data are transferred to the imageprocessing circuit 5 on the scanner 32 side through the CPU 44 on theprinter 41 side and the CPU 36 on the scanner 32 side, whereupon thelogic modules and wiring regions of the FPGA 5 a are connected in theimage processing circuit 5 on the basis of the circuit data that havebeen selected from the circuit data file 47 to thereby set thespecifications. With this arrangement, the image processing circuit 5may perform processing of image data in accordance with specificationsthat are identical to specifications that are employed in the imageprocessing circuit 12 on the printer 41 side.

[0091] While setting of specifications of the image processing circuit 5is naturally performed in the image processing system 30 upon switchingthe power source of the scanner 32 or the printer 41 ON or upon changingthe printer 41 that is connected to the scanner 32, the secondembodiment is arranged in that circuit data corresponding tospecification information corresponding to the new printer 41 andcircuit data corresponding to specification information corresponding tothe old printer 41, that is, circuit data used for the previous settingof specifications for the image processing circuit 5 on the scanner 32side are compared in the CPU 36 on the scanner 32 side. In case it isfound that these circuit data are identical, the new circuit data areabandoned and processing of image data is continued on the basis ofprevious settings of specifications for the image processing circuit 5.In this manner, by employing an arrangement in which setting ofspecifications for the image processing circuit 5 of the scanner 32 isnot repeatedly performed in case it is determined that specifications ofa new printer 41 are identical to specifications of the former printerupon changing printers in the above image processing system 30, it ispossible to shorten the time for setting specifications required whenchanging to a new printer 41, that is, the time in which the devices areterminated.

[0092] In an image processing system 40 as illustrated in FIG. 11, thenon-volatile memory 21 for communicating with the CPU 36 and the imageprocessing circuit 5 is provided on the scanner 32 side. In settingspecifications for the image processing circuit 5, the image processingsystem 40 is arranged in that circuit data, which are selected from thecircuit data file 47 to the image processing circuit 5 through the CPUs47, 36, are stored in the non-volatile memory 21. With this arrangement,circuit data are maintained in the non-volatile memory 21 also afterswitching the power source of the scanner 32 OFF. In case the powersource of the scanner 32 is repeatedly switched ON and specificationsare requested that are identical those of the previous time, circuitdata that have been stored at the previous time of transfer are directlysupplied from the non-volatile memory 21 to the image processing circuit5. It is consequently possible to eliminate the necessity of repeatedlyselecting circuit data from the circuit data file 47 and transferringthe circuit data through a specified communicating line, to eliminatethe time for transferring circuit data and to thus shorten the boottimes for the devices.

[0093]FIG. 12 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a third form for embodying thepresent invention. In the above-described embodiments, the imageprocessing circuit that may be set in accordance with specifications forprocessing image data on the basis of given circuit data had beenincorporated on the scanner side. In the third embodiment, such an imageprocessing circuit 62 is incorporated on a printer 61 side such thatspecifications for the image processing circuit 62 on the printer 61side may be set in accordance with specifications of an image processingcircuit 55 on a scanner 52 side.

[0094] In the image processing system 50, specifications for the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side are set in the followingmanner in performing copying processes.

[0095] In a condition in which the scanner 52 and the printer 61 aremutually connected, communication is performed between CPU 56 and CPU 64that are incorporated in these members for identifying specifications ofthe image processing circuit 55 on the scanner 52 side, whereuponcircuit data corresponding to these specifications are selected in theprinter 61 from among a circuit data file 57 that is provided within thescanner 52. The selected circuit data are transferred to the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side through the CPU 56 on thescanner 52 side and the CPU 64 on the printer 61 side, whereupon thelogic modules and wiring regions of FPGA 62 a are connected on the basisof the circuit data that have been selected from the circuit data file57 to thereby set the specifications. With this arrangement, the imageprocessing circuit 62 may perform processing of image data in accordancewith specifications that are identical to specifications that areemployed in the image processing circuit 55 on the printer 52 side.

[0096] The image processing circuit 62 provided on printer 61 side willrespectively be set as follows in accordance with various specificationsof scanner 52 to be connected in case the original specifications ofprinter 61 are, for instance, “600 dpi, colored, 256 levels ofhalftones”, “1,200 dpi, monochrome, 2 levels of halftones” and “600 dpi,monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, respectively.

[0097] In case of using a printer 61 which original specifications are“600 dpi, colored, 256 levels of halftones” and the specifications ofthe scanner 52 are “600 dpi, colored, 256 levels of halftones”, thespecifications of the image processing circuit 62 on the printer 61 sideare set to similarly generate image data of “600 dpi, CMYK colors, 256levels of halftones” by using image data of “600 dpi, CMYK colors, 256levels of halftones” that are output from the scanner 52.

[0098] In case specifications for the scanner 52 are “1,200 dpi,monochrome, 2 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side are set to generate imagedata of “600 dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” by usingimage data of “1,200 dpi, color K (black), 2 levels of halftones” thatare output from the scanner 52. It should be noted that data 0 aretransferred in view of CMY colors in generating image data in the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side in this case.

[0099] Further, in case specifications for the scanner 52 are “600 dpi,monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side are set to generate imagedata of “600 dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” by usingimage data of “1,200 dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” thatare output from the scanner 52. It should be noted that data 0 aretransferred in view of CMY colors in generating image data in the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side in this case.

[0100] Similarly, in case of using a printer 61 which originalspecifications are “1,200 dpi, monochrome, 2 levels of halftones” andthe specifications of the scanner 52 are “600 dpi, colored, 256 levelsof halftones”, the specifications of the image processing circuit 62 onthe printer 61 side are set to generate similar image data of “1,200dpi, monochrome, 2 levels of halftones” by using image data of “600 dpi,CMYK colors, 256 levels of halftones” that are output from the scanner52.

[0101] In case specifications for the scanner 52 are “1,200 dpi,monochrome, 2 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side are set to generate imagedata of “1,200 dpi, color K (black), 2 levels of halftones” by usingimage data of “1,200 dpi, color K (black), 2 levels of halftones” thatare output from the scanner 52.

[0102] Further, in case specifications for the scanner 52 are “600 dpi,monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side are set to generate imagedata of “1,200 dpi, color K (black), 2 levels of halftones” by usingimage data of “600 dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” thatare output from the scanner 52.

[0103] Similarly to this, in case of using a printer 61 which originalspecifications are “600 dpi, monochrome, 256 levels of halftones” andthe specifications of the scanner 52 are “600 dpi, colored, 256 levelsof halftones”, the specifications of the image processing circuit 62 onthe printer 61 side are set to similarly generate image data of “600dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” by using image data of“600 dpi, CMYK colors, 256 levels of halftones” that are output from thescanner 52.

[0104] In case specifications for the scanner 52 are “1,200 dpi,monochrome, 2 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side are set to generate imagedata of “600 dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” by usingimage data of “1,200 dpi, color K (black), 2 levels of halftones” thatare output from the scanner 52.

[0105] Further, in case specifications for the scanner 52 are “600 dpi,monochrome, 256 levels of halftones”, the specifications of the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side are set to generate imagedata of “600 dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” by usingdata of “600 dpi, color K (black), 256 levels of halftones” that areoutput from the scanner 52.

[0106] As described above, by setting specifications for the imageprocessing circuit 62 on the printer 61 side based on circuit dataselected from the circuit data file 57 in accordance with specificationinformation of the image processing circuit 55 provided on the scanner52 side such that the specifications are identical to the specificationinformation in performing copying processes by using the above imageprocessing system 50, it will be possible to perform copying processesby mutually connecting scanner 52 and printer 61 which specificationsrelated to resolution, colored/monochrome and number of halftonesdiffer.

[0107] In an image processing system 70 as illustrated in FIG. 13, thenon-volatile memory 21 for communicating with the CPU 64 and the imageprocessing circuit 62 is provided on the printer 61 side. In settingspecifications for the image processing circuit 52, the image processingsystem 70 is arranged in that circuit data, which are selected from thecircuit data file 57 to the image processing circuit 62 through the CPUs56, 64, are stored in the non-volatile memory 21. With this arrangement,circuit data are maintained in the non-volatile memory 21 also afterswitching the power source of the printer 61 OFF. In case the powersource of the printer 61 is repeatedly switched ON and specificationsare requested that are identical those of the previous time, circuitdata that have been stored at the previous time of transfer are directlysupplied from the non-volatile memory 21 to the image processing circuit62. It is consequently possible to eliminate the necessity of repeatedlyselecting circuit data from the circuit data file 57 and transferringthe circuit data through a specified communicating line, to eliminatethe time for transferring circuit data and to thus shorten the boottimes for the devices.

[0108]FIG. 14 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a fourth form for embodying thepresent invention. The image processing system 80 is of similararrangement as that of the above-described third embodiment wherein thecircuit data file 97 for storing a plurality of circuit data that aresupplied to an image processing circuit 62 on a printer 91 side isprovided on the printer 91 side.

[0109] Specifications for the image processing circuit 55 on the scanner82 side are set in the following manner for performing copying processesusing the image processing system 80.

[0110] In a condition in which the scanner 82 and the printer 91 aremutually connected, communication is performed between CPU 86 and CPU 94that are incorporated in these members for identifying specifications ofthe image processing circuit 55 on the scanner 82 side, whereuponcircuit data corresponding to these specifications are selected in theprinter 91 from among the circuit data file 97 that is provided withinthe printer 91. The selected circuit data are transferred to the imageprocessing circuit 62 through the CPU 94, whereupon the logic modulesand wiring regions of FPGA 62 a are connected on the basis of thecircuit data to thereby set the specifications. With this arrangement,the image processing circuit 62 may perform processing of image data inaccordance with specifications that are identical to specifications thatare employed in the image processing circuit 55 on the scanner 82 side.

[0111] In an image processing system 100 as illustrated in FIG. 15, thenon-volatile memory 21 for communicating with the CPU 94 and the imageprocessing circuit 62 is provided on the printer 91 side. In settingspecifications for the image processing circuit 62, the image processingsystem 100 is arranged in that circuit data, which are selected from thecircuit data file 97 to the image processing circuit 62 through the CPUs86, 94, are stored in the nonvolatile memory 21. With this arrangement,circuit data are maintained in the non-volatile memory 21 also afterswitching the power source of the printer 91 OFF. In case the powersource of the printer 91 is repeatedly switched ON and specificationsare requested that are identical those of the previous time, circuitdata that have been stored at the previous time of transfer are directlysupplied from the non-volatile memory 21 to the image processing circuit62. It is consequently possible to eliminate the necessity of repeatedlyselecting circuit data from the circuit data file 97 and transferringthe circuit data through a specified communicating line, to eliminatethe time for transferring circuit data and to thus shorten the boottimes for the devices.

[0112]FIG. 16 is an explanatory view illustrating an arrangement of theimage processing system according to a fifth form for embodying thepresent invention.

[0113] This image processing system 110 includes scanners which are acolor scanner 112A and a monochrome scanner 112B having a resolution of1,200 dpi and printers which are a color printer 121A, a monochromeprinter 121B having a resolution of 1,200 dpi and a monochrome printer121C having a resolution of 600 dpi. The scanners 112A, 112B arerespectively connected to the printers 121A, 121B and 121C throughspecified communicating lines, and it is possible to performcommunication between CPUs 116A, 116B provided on the scanners 112A,112B sides and CPUs 124A, 124B and 124C provided on the printers 121A,121B and 121C sides.

[0114] In the present embodiment, image processing circuits 115A, 115B,122A, 122B and 122C that are incorporated in all of the scanners 112A,112B and printers 121A, 121B and 121C may be set in accordance withspecifications for processing image data on the basis of given circuitdata. A circuit data file functioning as a means for storing circuitdata that are sent to respective image processing circuits 115A, 115B,122A, 122B and 122C is provided within the monochrome scanner 112B.Moreover, the printers 121A, 121B and 121C are respectively comprisedwith input units that are provided by a number corresponding to thetypes of scanners present (two in the present example) in thisembodiment so that a required one may be selected when inputting imagedata from the scanners 112A, 112B for each image processing circuits122A, 122B and 122C.

[0115] Specifications for the image processing circuits that areincorporated in both members are set in the following manner inperforming copying processes by using the thus arranged image processingsystem 110.

[0116] Let us first consider a case in which specifications of the imageprocessing circuits 122A, 122B and 122C on the printer sides are set inaccordance with specifications of the image processing circuits 115A,115B on the scanner sides. In such a case, specifications of the imageprocessing circuits 115A, 115B on the scanner sides are identifiedthrough communication between the CPUs 116A, 116B on the scanner sidesand the CPUs 124A, 124B and 124C on the printer sides. The printer 121A,121B and 121 respectively selects circuit data from among a circuit datafile 117 provided within the monochrome scanner 112B through thecommunicating lines in accordance with specifications of either one ofthe circuits. The selected circuit data are transferred to therespective image processing circuits 122A, 122B and 122C by passingthrough the CPU 116B of the monochrome scanner 112B and the respectiveCPUs 124A, 124B and 124C on the printer sides.

[0117] In the respective image processing circuits 122A, 122B and 122C,logic modules and wiring regions of respective FPGAs 122 a, 122 b and122 c are connected on the basis of the circuit data that have beenselected from the circuit data file 117 for setting specificationsthereof. With this arrangement, the respective image processing circuits122A, 122B and 122C may generate image data with specifications that areidentical to the specifications of the image processing circuits 115Aand 115B on the scanner sides.

[0118] It will next be considered a case in which specifications of theimage processing circuits 115A and 115B on the scanner sides are set inaccordance with specifications of the image processing circuits 122A,122B and 122C. In such a case, specifications of the image processingcircuits 122A, 122B and 122C on the printer sides are identified throughcommunication between the CPUs 116A, 116B on the scanner sides and theCPUs 124A, 124B and 124C on the printer sides. The scanners 112A and122B respectively select circuit data from among the circuit data file117 provided within the monochrome scanner 112B through thecommunicating lines in accordance with specifications of either one ofthe circuits. The selected circuit data are transferred either to imageprocessing circuit 115B by passing through the CPU 116B of themonochrome scanner 112B or to the image processing circuit 115A on thecolor scanner 112A side by passing through the CPU 116B on themonochrome scanner 112B side or the CPU 116A on the color scanner 112Aside.

[0119] In the respective image processing circuits 115A and 115B, logicmodules and wiring regions of respective FPGAs 115 a and 115 b areconnected on the basis of the circuit data that have been selected fromthe circuit data file 117 for setting specifications thereof. With thisarrangement, the respective image processing circuits 115A and 115B maygenerate image data with specifications that are identical to thespecifications of the image processing circuits 122A, 122B and 122C onthe printer sides.

[0120] As explained so far, the above-described image processing system110 is arranged in that the circuit data file for storing thereincircuit data for setting specifications for the respective imageprocessing circuits is provided only on either one of the scanners (themonochrome scanner 112B) while providing a plurality of scanners andprinters incorporating therein image processing circuits that may be setin accordance with specifications for processing image data on the basisof given circuit data, and in that circuit data, which are stored on thecircuit data file, are transferred, when required, to the imageprocessing circuits on the scanner or printer sides through thecommunicating lines, so that it is possible to keep the circuit scale tobe minimum and to restrict increases in costs.

[0121] In the image processing system 110 in which a plurality ofscanners 112A, 112B and printers 121A, 121B and 121C are connectedthrough specified communicating lines, in case specifications of imageprocessing circuits on the scanners 112A, 112B sides are, for instance,set in accordance with specification information of the printers 121A,121B and 121C, an appliance that is incorporated with an imageprocessing circuit that may be set in accordance with specifications onthe basis of given circuit data needs to correspond to a plurality ofappliances that are of different specifications such that a plurality ofprinters may be used as destinations for sending image data from asingle scanner. In this case, an arrangement in which setting ofspecifications is performed on the scanner side each time thedestination for transmitting the image data is switched would prolongthe time require for the setting as a whole. Thus, the image processingcircuits 115A, 115B on the scanners 112A, 112B sides or the imageprocessing circuits 122A, 122B and 122C on the printers 121A, 121B and121C sides are set to be of default specifications (that is, initiallyset specifications) in case a specified condition is met.

[0122] For instance, when considering a case in which specifications ofthe image processing circuits 115A, 115B on the scanners 112A, 112Bsides are set in accordance with specification information of theprinters 121A, 121B and 121C, the image processing circuits 115A, 115Bon the scanners 112A, 112B sides are set to be of default specificationsin this embodiment in case a single job for transmitting image data fromthe scanners 112A, 112B to the printers 121A, 121B and 121C has beencompleted or when standby conditions of the scanners 112A, 112B, inwhich no requests are being made from the printers 121A, 121B and 121Csides, are continuing beyond a specified time. The defaultspecifications are set to be those suitable for the scanners 112A, 112B(e.g. their original specifications) or those that are relativelyfrequently used.

[0123] In this manner, by setting the specifications of the imageprocessing circuits 115A, 115B on the scanners 112A, 112B sides to bethose suitable for the scanners 112A, 112B (e.g. their originalspecifications) or those that are relatively frequently used in case asingle job for transmitting image data from the scanners 112A, 112B tothe printers 121A, 121B and 121C has been completed or when standbyconditions of the scanners 112A, 112B, in which no requests are beingmade from the printers 121A, 121B and 121C sides, are continuing beyonda specified time, it is possible to reduce the frequency in which theimage processing circuits 115A, 115B on the scanners 112A, 112B sidesare set in accordance with specifications of destinations to which imagedata are to be sent from the scanners 112A, 112B upon switching, and anaverage time for setting specifications for the image processingcircuits 115A, 115B can accordingly be reduced.

[0124]FIGS. 17A and 17B are flowcharts illustrating generally performedprocesses for setting specifications of the image processing circuits115A, 115B on the scanner sides 112A, 112B in accordance with requestsfrom the printers 121A, 121B and 121C and for setting specifications ofthe image processing circuits 115A, 115B on the scanner sides 112A, 112Bin case standby conditions of the scanners 112A, 112B are continuingbeyond a specified time.

[0125] Upon request of the printers 121A, 121B and 121C for sendingimage data, the CPUs 116A, 116B on the scanners 112A, 112B receivecircuit data that have been selected from among the circuit data file 7on the basis of specifications of the printers 121A, 121B and 121C asillustrated in FIG. 17A (#41). Then, the received circuit data are sentfrom the CPUs 116A, 116B to the image processing circuits 115A, 115B,and specifications for processing image data on the basis of circuitdata corresponding to specifications of the printers 121A, 121B and 121Care set in the image processing circuits 115A and 115B (#42).

[0126] On the other hand, in case no requests are being made from theprinters 121A, 121B and 121C sides and standby conditions of thescanners 112A, 112B are continuing beyond a specified time, circuit datafor providing default specifications are read out from the circuit datafile 7 as illustrated in FIG. 17B (#46). These circuit data are sent tothe image processing circuits 115A, 115B on the scanners 112A, 112Bsides, and default specifications are set in the image processingcircuits 115A, 115B based on the circuit data (#47).

[0127] In an image processing system 130 as illustrated in FIG. 18,non-volatile memories 21 are provided for respective pairs of imageprocessing circuits 115A, 115B, 122A, 122B and 122C that may be set inaccordance with specifications for processing image data and CPUs 116A,116B, 124A, 124B, 124C. In setting specifications for the imageprocessing circuits 115A, 115B or 122A, 122B and 122C, the imageprocessing system 130 is arranged in that circuit data, which areselected from the circuit data file 117 to the respective imageprocessing circuits, are stored in the respective non-volatile memory21. With this arrangement, circuit data are maintained in thenon-volatile memory 21 also after switching the power sources of therespective appliances OFF. In case the power sources of the scanners112A, 112B or the printers 121A, 121B and 121C are repeatedly switchedON and specifications are requested that are identical those of theprevious time, circuit data that have been stored at the previous timeof transfer are directly supplied from the respective non-volatilememories 21 to the image processing circuits 115A, 115B or 122A, 122Band 122C. It is consequently possible to eliminate the necessity ofrepeatedly selecting circuit data from the circuit data file 117 andtransferring the circuit data through specified communicating lines, toeliminate the time for transferring circuit data and to thus shorten theboot times for the devices.

[0128] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited tothe illustrated forms of embodiment, and it goes without saying thatvarious improvements and changes of design are possible withoutdeparting from the scope of the spirit of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An image processing system comprised of an imagereading device for optically reading original documents and convertingthese into electronic image data, and a printing device for printingimage data that have been received from the image reading device ontorecording media, the image processing system further comprising: a firstimage processing unit that is provided on the image reading device sidefor processing read image data with at least a part thereof beingcomprised by a device which circuit logic is variable, a second imageprocessing unit that is provided on the printing device side forprocessing image data received from the image reading device, arecording medium for storing a plurality of circuit arrangementinformation, and a control unit for discriminating specifications forprocessing of the second image processing unit, selecting one of theplurality of circuit arrangement information in accordance with thediscriminated specifications for processing, and setting a circuit logicfor the first image processing unit based on the selected circuitarrangement information.
 2. The image processing system as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the specifications for processing that arediscriminated by the control unit are specifications for processingrelated to at least one of resolution, colored/monochrome and number ofhalftones.
 3. The image processing system as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe recording medium is provided on the printing device side and inwhich the control unit acquires circuit arrangement information that isstored in the recording medium upon communication with the printingdevice.
 4. The image processing system as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe image processing system is further comprised with another imagereading device that may communicate with the above-described imagereading device and in which the control unit acquires circuitarrangement information that is stored in the recording medium uponcommunication with the other image reading device.
 5. The imageprocessing system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the image processingsystem is further comprised with a non-volatile memory provided on theimage reading device side, and in which the control unit performscontrol such that circuit arrangement information acquired from therecording medium are stored in the non-volatile memory and that thesecircuit information are read from the non-volatile memory when necessaryfor setting the circuit logic for the first image processing unit. 6.The image processing system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the controlunit reads circuit information from the non-volatile memory whenswitching the power source of the device ON for setting the circuitlogic for the first image processing unit.
 7. The image processingsystem as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit compares thenewly acquired circuit arrangement information with circuit arrangementinformation that is in compliance with the currently set circuit logicfor the first image processing unit and inhibits setting of a circuitlogic for the first image processing unit based on the newly acquiredcircuit arrangement information in case both information are identical.8. The image processing system as claimed in claim 1, wherein thecontrol unit sets the circuit logic for the first image processing unitto be a circuit logic that is based on default specifications in case aspecified condition is met.
 9. The image processing system as claimed inclaim 8, wherein the control unit sets the circuit logic for the firstimage processing unit to be a circuit logic that is based on defaultspecifications upon completion of a single job in case the specifiedcondition is completion of a single job in the image processing system.10. The image processing system as claimed in claim 8, wherein thecontrol unit sets the circuit logic for the first image processing unitto be a circuit logic that is based on default specifications when astandby time of the image processing system has exceeded a specifiedtime in case the specified condition is the standby time of the imageprocessing system.
 11. The image processing system as claimed in claim8, wherein the default specifications are specifications for processingthat are most frequently used.
 12. An image processing system comprisedof an image reading device for optically reading original documents andconverting these into electronic image data, and a printing device forprinting image data that have been received from the image readingdevice onto recording media, the image processing system furthercomprising: a first image processing unit that is provided on the imagereading device side for processing read image data, a second imageprocessing unit that is provided on the printing device side forprocessing image data received from the image reading device with atleast a part thereof being comprised by a device which circuit logic isvariable, a recording medium for storing a plurality of circuitarrangement information, and a control unit for discriminatingspecifications for processing of the first image processing unit,selecting one of the plurality of circuit arrangement information inaccordance with the discriminated specifications for processing, andsetting a circuit logic for the second image processing unit based onthe selected circuit arrangement information.
 13. The image processingsystem as claimed in claim 12, wherein the specifications for processingthat are discriminated by the control unit are specifications forprocessing related to at least one of resolution, colored/monochrome andnumber of halftones.
 14. The image processing system as claimed in claim12, wherein the recording medium is provided on the printing device sideand in which the control unit acquires circuit arrangement informationthat is stored in the recording medium upon communication with theprinting device.
 15. The image processing system as claimed in claim 12,wherein the image processing system is further comprised with anotherimage reading device that may communicate with the above-described imagereading device and in which the control unit acquires circuitarrangement information that is stored in the recording medium uponcommunication with the other image reading device.
 16. The imageprocessing system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the image processingsystem is further comprised with a non-volatile memory provided on theimage reading device side, and in which the control unit performscontrol such that circuit arrangement information acquired from therecording medium are stored in the non-volatile memory and that thesecircuit information are read from the non-volatile memory when necessaryfor setting the circuit logic for the second image processing unit. 17.The image processing system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the controlunit reads circuit information from the non-volatile memory whenswitching the power source of the device ON for setting the circuitlogic for the second image processing unit.
 18. The image processingsystem as claimed in claim 12, wherein the control unit compares thenewly acquired circuit arrangement information with circuit arrangementinformation that is in compliance with the currently set circuit logicfor the second image processing unit and inhibits setting of a circuitlogic for the second image processing unit based on the newly acquiredcircuit arrangement information in case both information are identical.19. The image processing system as claimed in claim 12, wherein thecontrol unit sets the circuit logic for the second image processing unitto be a circuit logic that is based on default specifications in case aspecified condition is met.
 20. The image processing system as claimedin claim 19, wherein the control unit sets the circuit logic for thesecond image processing unit to be a circuit logic that is based ondefault specifications upon completion of a single job in case thespecified condition is completion of a single job in the imageprocessing system.
 21. The image processing system as claimed in claim19, wherein the control unit sets the circuit logic for the second imageprocessing unit to be a circuit logic that is based on defaultspecifications when a standby time of the image processing system hasexceeded a specified time in case the specified condition is the standbytime of the image processing system.
 22. The image processing system asclaimed in claim 19, wherein the default specifications arespecifications for processing that are most frequently used.